251 Reasons: #2: Richmond, VT: Monday, May 15, 2006

A few days after my first stop with the 251 Club (see Williston), I was ready to depart Vermont's Green Mountains on my way back to the Garden State. Hoping to see a few more towns, I decided to take my time and travel down Rt. 2, which runs parallel to two of the more noticeable landmarks near my hometown: the Winooski River and Interstate 89 (I-89). This path would take me along the river, winding through a number of towns as I headed toward the state capitol, Montpelier.

Just a short drive down the road, I passed over one of the large, green metal bridges, over the Winooski River. When I was younger, the river had always been the dividing line, leading into Richmond, but in reality I'd passed the town line quite a ways back. This winding stretch of road passed by the entrance to I-89 on its way to the Richmond town center.

Now, I'll admit that I haven't explored this area as well as I might have, but I found plenty of things to hold my interest in the small area that I did see. Even though it's not a large town center, Richmond is a fine example of a Vermont town, with all of the local necessities. The short street running down to the river is lined with brick-faced buildings containing shops and offices, as well as a bank and gas station.

Traveling into town, I took a right onto the aptly named Bridget St., over yet another green metal bridge, on my way to one of the more well-known landmarks of the area, and a national historic site: the Old Round Church. Parking my car, I wandered around the property, amazed by the large structure. Unfortunately, I hadn't planned my visit very well, and was not able to enter because no tours were being offered that day. In retrospect, I should have coordinated with my father who volunteered as a guide, to take me in and give me a personalized tour of the place. But, regardless of whether I entered or not, the church is really an amazing structure. I guess I'll just have to make another trip one of these days.

Leaving my car at the church, I walked back across the short span of the bridge, into town. I'd never been to the Richmond Free Library, so I was surprised to see that it wasn't one of the rather bland, industrial-looking town buildings, but a beautiful, renovated church, situated by the railroad tracks. I popped in and spoke to a very friendly clerk who told me about the building, which includes a performance hall (with a baby grand piano!) and individual practice rooms which are, apparently, heavily used. Up on the second floor, I got to see these beautiful spaces firsthand, and to meet the children's librarian, who gave me yet another surprise. It turned out that his wife had been my 4th and 5th grade teacher!

It was obvious that the library really held a central role in the Richmond community, providing a gathering place for both intellectual and cultural events. But, my time was short, and I needed to get back on the road. Leaving the library behind, I headed back to my car, hoping to see more sights as I headed out of town.

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